Jaw Sprain

Violent overstretching of one or more ligaments in the temporo-mandibular joint. Sprains involving two or more ligaments cause considerably more disability than single-ligament sprains. When the ligament is overstretched, it becomes tense and gives way at its weakest point, either where it attaches to bone or within the ligament itself. If the ligament pulls loose a fragment of bone, it is called a sprain-fracture. There are 3 types of sprains:

• Mild (Grade I) - Tearing of some ligament fibers. There is no loss of function.
• Moderate (Grade II) - Rupture of a portion of the ligament, resulting in some loss of function.
• Severe (Grade III) - Complete rupture of the ligament or complete separation of ligament from bone. There is total loss of function. A severe sprain requires surgical repair.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED

• Ligaments of the temporo-mandlbular joint of the jaw.
• Tissue surrounding the sprain, including blood vessels, tendons, bone, periosteum (covering of bone) and muscles.

Causes

Stress that forces the jaw through wider range of motion than ligaments normally permit.

Signs & Symptoms

• Severe pain at the time of injury.
• A feeling of popping or tearing inside the jaw.
• Difficulty opening and closing the mouth.
• Tenderness at the injury site.
• Swelling around the jaw.
• Bruising that appears soon after injury.

Treatment

Follow your doctor's instructions. Instructions are supplemental.

• Continue using an ice pack 3 or 4 times a day. Place ice chips or cubes in a plastic bag. Wrap the bag in a moist towel, and place it over the jaw .Use for 20 minutes at a time.
• After 72 hours, apply heat instead of ice if it feels better. Use heat lamps, hot soaks, hot showers, heating pads, or heat liniments or , ointments.
• Massage gently and often to provide comfort decrease swelling.

MEDICATION

• For minor discomfort, you may use aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Your doctor may prescribe: Stronger pain relievers. Injection of a long-acting local anesthetic to reduce pain. Injection of a corticosteroid, such as triamcinolone, to reduce inflammation. Stool softeners if constipation results from a liquid or soft diet.

Home Diet

A normal diet may be difficult, especially if the jaw is wired or bandaged. If so, eat soft or liquid foods and increase your protein intake to promote healing.

Prevention Tips

Wear protective equipment, such as a face mask and mouthpiece, when appropriate.